stalking-horse

stalking-horse is a Noun

Definition:

[1] A horse, or a figure resembling a horse, behind which a hunter conceals himself from the game he is aiming to kill.

[2] Fig.: Something used to cover up a secret project; a mask; a pretense. Hypocrisy is the devil`s stalking-horse under an affectation of simplicity and religion. L`Estrange. How much more abominable is it to make of him [Christ] and religion a stalking-horse, to get and enjoy the world! Bunyan.